The passing of the federal stimulus package, with its $8 billion earmarked for various transportation projects, has breathed new life into existing plans to build a new high-yield rail service in New York's Empire Corridor.

According to Sen. Charles Schumer, the proposed improvement of the route from New York City through Albany to Buffalo is a prime candidate to receive part of this funding. Schumer, along with other state and federal lawmakers, have expressed support for this project given the "aging and ailing" condition of the rail system in Western and Central New York.

With the present set-up, passenger trains must share tracks with freight trains, crossings and other structural details have caused delays (and would need to be upgraded to accommodate high speed service) and the need for a second track between New York City and Albany is growing. 

The project has garnered support from U.S. Rep. Paul Tonko, who supports an upgraded passenger rail system to help "take cars off the road, reducing congestion, pollution and saving fuel."